3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs can be a great option for mums who love walking over diverse terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs make them easier to manoeuvre and offer more stability on rough ground.
If you plan to use your buggy on terrains other than the paved ones, you should choose one with air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). These are much more efficient on surfaces that are not paved and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
The larger the wheels of your pushchair the better they are able to deal with rough terrain and the ground. It's because larger wheels are more likely to skid' on bumps and dips. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The downside is that extra wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and certain models with big front wheels may need to have them removed in order to put it away flat.
All-terrain strollers have features like large puncture-proof tires and sturdy suspension to allow them to handle everything from busy high-street strolls to woodland hikes. These models are usually more expensive however if your pushchair is frequently used outside of the main roads often, they could be worth the cost.
It is better to choose a pushchair equipped with pneumatic (or air-filled) tyres if you plan to take it off roads. They are better suited for rough terrain than solid rubber tyres. They are also much less prone to punctures than tyres which are composed of metal or hard plastic.
Some models of pushchair allow you to click off the front wheel when in use, making them easier to store, which is useful in the event that you have a small car boot. Some models have an front wheel that can be locked into place to ensure stability when on rough terrain. It's important to know the ease of you to use a pushchair that has this feature prior to buying.
It's important to consider how easy it will be it to add another seat or parent-facing pushchair to your. This is especially true if you have a baby with you. Some models are designed for rapid and simple configuration changes, while others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is often easier to steer and handle than a 4-wheeler, due to the single wheel in front making it easy to maneuver over bumps or rough terrain. A lot of models have suspension systems that help to absorb shocks and provide your child with a smooth ride. MFM's Kath tested a three-wheeled buggie and was impressed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy to get up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to negotiate over grass too.
There are three kinds of three-wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also known as joggers) models that are all-terrain, and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and shorter frames that are more designed for urban environments, while joggers are equipped with large wheels and are designed to be used off-road. They typically come with a handbrake as well as adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road walks.
All-terrain pushchairs are a favorite for parents who want to enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the countryside. They usually come with larger and more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They're great for rough terrain and are typically used from birth, however you may need to purchase car seat adaptors if you are looking to connect a compatible infant carrier.
Some pushchairs resemble 3-wheelers but are actually four wheels. Two small wheels are positioned close in front instead of the traditional central pair. This gives maneuverability and the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs come with an swivelable and lockable front wheel that makes them more maneuverable. This is particularly useful when you frequently encounter rough surfaces, as it could aid you in avoiding being stuck or walking around obstacles. Certain all-terrain pushchairs are equipped with foam-filled "never flat' tyres, which don't require pumping up, so they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or frequent use. It's worth noting that these kinds of pushchairs are generally heavier and bigger than other models which is why it's essential to consider the method you'll use for transporting or storing them when selecting the best model for you.
Weight
Generally speaking 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and more spacious than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they have large rear wheels. It can be difficult to lift a pushchair once it is folded, such as when loading into the trunk of a car or navigating steps. This could make the pushchair feel heavy when you are out and about, and could hinder your ability to maneuver through narrow spaces or aisles in shops.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to withstand a variety of different terrains, such as rough and uneven ground, mud and gravel paths. These pushchairs typically come with large, puncture-proof tyres as well as a sturdy suspension system to offer a safe and comfortable ride for your child. They are typically expensive when compared with regular pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a great choice when you live in the country or take your baby on regular walks in woods or in country parks. These pushchairs will generally have large tyres on both the front and back, and are designed to handle a wide variety of terrains. 3 wheel buggy will often be the best option for wet and muddy weather as well, although we suggest inspecting the tyres frequently to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core, for example, is an all-terrain pushchair that ticks a lot of boxes. It has a generous basket that can hold up to 10kg, a one hand fold, and a movable handlebar. Its large tyres are foam-filled and never flat, so you don't have to worry about punctures or losing air pressure. The seat is world-facing and suitable from birth, and can be used with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
Another option is another option is the Special Tomato Jogger, which features a light design and outstanding maneuverability. It's ideal for parents who like going for walks or jogs and comes with a suspension to ensure an enjoyable ride on all terrains. We also love how easy to clean it is, with the fabric simply being removed from the frame and being machine washable in cold water.
Tyres
A 3-wheel pushchair's tyres will often be larger than those found on a 4-wheel pram, which can help to handle off-road terrain. For example the UPPAbaby Ridge features large foam-filled tyres that are never flat and suspension systems that make it great for long walks and rough ground. It's also designed to be suitable for running when your baby is old enough, thanks to a 360 locking swivel front wheel that can be locked and adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres could increase the overall weight of the pushchair, so you'll need to take this into account when deciding on the model. You will also need to decide if you want a model with removable wheels so that it is easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky particularly enjoyed this feature because it made manoeuvring around supermarket corners much simpler.